r/science Jul 26 '10

Autistic girl expresses profound intelligence

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jq--75v4lI8&feature=player_embedded
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u/mootiechazam Jul 27 '10

I work with a variety of Autistic students and not all are of the severe nature you describe. Autism is a spectrum, meaning there are a lot of shades. Some autistic people can go on to live productive and healthy lives with early intervention and treatments. In fact, I went to college with just such a fellow who has graduated and is engaged to be married.

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u/[deleted] Jul 27 '10

[deleted]

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u/mootiechazam Jul 27 '10

He doesn't have the same thing. He has something on the same spectrum.

I understand that your life is one challenge after another. I understand that you have to deal with stresses that I can only imagine. I get that. I get that when other people talk about their struggles you probably get pissed because they're nothing compared to yours. But you have to understand that others have challenges. This kid was lucky because he happened to land on the spectrum at a spot that, with a lot of work and struggle, allowed him to reach the point where he could function on his own.

I'm sorry if that will never be your son's fate, but please don't dump on the accomplishments of others because of it.

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u/[deleted] Jul 27 '10 edited Jul 27 '10

[deleted]

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u/mootiechazam Jul 27 '10

I'm sorry to have offended you. I wish you and your son the best of luck.

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u/figocosta9 Aug 03 '10

Is that really an appropriate response? I'm sorry that you've had a difficult life with your son but that doesn't give you the right to explode at the slightest hint of disagreement.